IHHT Therapy

IHHT therapy is a specific form of hypoxia therapy in which phases of oxygen deficiency (hypoxia) and excess oxygen (hyperoxia) are used alternately to improve cell and mitochondrial function. In contrast to continuous hypoxia therapy, which uses a permanent lack of oxygen, and ozone therapy, which uses ozone to boost the immune system, IHHT uses alternating oxygen stimuli to promote cell and mitochondrial training, which increases energy production. IHHT also differs from other approaches: while mitochondrial therapy uses nutritional supplements to strengthen the cellular power plants and cryotherapy uses cold to act locally on tissue and muscles, IHHT specifically promotes oxygen utilization and cellular energy production. In contrast to acupuncture, which regulates energy flows through needle pricks, IHHT uses oxygen modulation to achieve a biochemical reaction that directly influences cell health and thus adapts the body to stress and supports cellular regeneration.

Hypoxia occurs when body tissues receive insufficient oxygen supply, a condition that can arise from various causes including high-altitude exposure, lung diseases, or compromised blood oxygen delivery. Common symptoms range from fatigue and dizziness to impaired concentration, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
Hyperoxia represents the opposite condition – an excess of oxygen in body tissues. While oxygen is essential for life, excessive levels can lead to adverse effects, particularly affecting sensitive organs such as the lungs and eyes. Understanding these opposing states is crucial for IHHT therapy, which utilizes controlled alternation between them to achieve therapeutic benefits.

IHHT therapy stimulates and promotes the body’s natural adaptation mechanisms. Through the targeted interaction of hypoxia and hyperoxia, various physiological processes are activated, which have the following effects.

Interval hypoxia-hyperoxia therapy uses a targeted change in oxygen levels to stimulate the body’s own physiological adaptations. It promotes regeneration, optimizes cell function and increases the body’s resistance. In the following we would like to give you an overview of the most important goals and modes of action of IHHT therapy:

Intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia training is increasingly being used for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma and fatigue syndrome, as it promotes the function and adaptability of cells and tissue and can therefore sustainably improve the well-being of those affected. Studies show that targeted oxygen modulation in IHHT therapy leads to improved cell regeneration and energy supply, which can have a beneficial effect on the course of the disease. For example, as with asthma, IHHT therapy can help to regulate the inflammatory processes in the airways and strengthen the mucous membrane, which can have a positive effect on the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

IHHT therapy is used in a large range of applications, not only to promote health but also to provide support, for example in professional sports.

Intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia training (IHHT) strengthens the immune system by stimulating cells to adapt to varying oxygen conditions. These fluctuations promote the production of the body’s own antioxidants and activate immune cells, which has a positive effect on the inhibition of inflammation and the general immune system. IHHT therapy optimizes mitochondrial functions and thus metabolism, which supports patients with chronic metabolic diseases such as diabetes.

In cardiovascular diseases, IHHT therapy can promote the formation of new blood vessels and vascular elasticity, which improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure and stabilizes heart function. IHHT therapy is also used for neurodegenerative diseases. These are diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, as it promotes neuronal regeneration and can therefore have a positive effect on the progress of the disease.

For patients with Long COVID, IHHT therapy can be a promising option not only to reduce symptoms but also to regain general performance. The targeted oxygen supply helps to increase the energy level of the cells again and consequently promote recovery after physical and health-related exertion.

IHHT treatment is a popular application in the field of sport. It not only improves performance, but also promotes regeneration after exercise by optimizing oxygen utilization in the cells. Through targeted hypoxia training, the body adapts and oxygen uptake into the blood improves. In endurance sports in particular, this helps to increase stamina and resilience in the long term, which is why footballers, for example, often train in the mountains.

In the long term, IHHT therapy can make a significant contribution to health prevention by specifically strengthening the body’s physiological adaptability. This involves stimulating the immune system and improving the function of the mitochondria. As a result, the cells can work more energy-efficiently and the body can react better to stress factors such as inflammation or oxidative stress.

These adaptive reactions can also have a preventative effect, as they reduce the risk of a variety of diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders or degenerative diseases. The therapy thus supports the balance in the body and contributes to the long-term maintenance of one’s own vitality.

IHHT therapy is a treatment that can be carried out both in clinics and in the patient’s own home. The procedure is designed so that patients can take full effect of the benefits of the interaction between hypoxia and hyperoxia.

In professional facilities, IHHT therapy is always carried out under the supervision of trained specialists. At the beginning, a comprehensive medical history is taken in order to determine the patient’s state of health and rule out possible contraindications. The therapy then uses devices that precisely control the hypoxia and hyperoxia phases. Patients usually relax on a couch while the oxygen concentration in the air they breathe is adjusted in a controlled manner. The sessions involve alternating phases of reduced and increased oxygen levels. These changes take place at controlled time intervals. During this time, the patient’s vital signs are constantly monitored to ensure safety.

Modern IHHT equipment designed for home use offers safe and effective therapy in a convenient setting. These compact, user-friendly systems allow for independent treatment while maintaining professional standards. Certified specialists provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure proper device operation and optimal therapeutic outcomes.

IHHT therapy shows encouraging results in medical practice. Many patients experience better physical performance and increased energy levels after treatment. Doctors and therapists observe particularly good results in athletic performance improvement and chronic disease treatment.

Patient feedback has been largely positive, with most reporting increased energy and better physical capabilities. Like any treatment, results can vary from person to person, which is why a thorough medical check-up is important before starting therapy. While current research results are promising, scientists continue to study IHHT to better understand its full potential and long-term benefits.

Intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia training is considered a safe form of treatment with many health benefits. Nevertheless, as with any therapy, side effects and risks can occur. A thorough medical assessment of potential side effects and contraindications is essential before beginning treatment to ensure patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.

The most common IHHT side effects include:

In general, IHHT therapy is a safe treatment that has very similar side effects as hypoxic training. Nevertheless, it is important to consider potential risks and contraindications.

When using IHHT therapy, certain risks and contraindications must be taken into account in order to ensure the patient’s safety. Patients with severe cardiovascular disease in particular should exercise caution and seek medical advice before starting treatment, as the therapy can be stressful for the cardiovascular system. In addition, it is not recommended for patients with acute infections, as these illnesses may be exacerbated by the therapy. Careful consideration is also necessary for patients with cancer, and medical advice should always be obtained in order to minimize possible risks.

In the following, we answer the most frequently asked questions about IHHT therapy to give you a better overview of this topic.

Further information intended to give a better overview of the topic.